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Lemon Roast Pork Tenderloins with Warm Beets, Chicory and Goat Cheese

Lemon Roast Pork Tenderloins with Warm Beets, Chicory and Goat Cheese

4 T. EVOO

1 T. Dry Mustard

3 cloves Garlic, chopped

Juice and Zest of 2 Lemons

2 Pork Tenderloins (2 – 2 1/4 lb.), trimmed of silverskin

Salt and Pepper

4 slices Bacon, chopped

1 Yellow Onion, thinly sliced

1 T. fresh Thyme, chopped

15oz. can sliced Beets, drained with 4 T. juice reserved

1 head Chicory, washed, dried, and torn into bite size pieces

20 fresh Basil Leaves, chopped

1 handful Flat Leaf Parsley, chopped

1/2 C. crumbled goat Cheese

Preheat oven to 450F. In small bowl combine 2 T. EVOO, mustard, garlic and half lemon juice. Toss the tenderloins in the lemon mixture. Place on nonstick baking sheet with a rim. Season with salt and pepper and roast for 25 minutes, then remove and let rest. While pork roasts, preheat skillet with remaining 2 T. EVOO over medium high heat. Add chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 3 minutes. Add onion and thyme and cook 2 to 3 minutes more, stirring occasionally. Add beets and reserved beet juice, salt and pepper and cook another 2 minutes, or until beets are warmed through. Meanwhile in salad bowl combine chicory, lemon zest, remaining lemon juice, basil and parsley. Transfer warm beets to salad bowl and toss to combine and wilt the chicory. Slice pork thin on an angle. Serve sliced pork with the warm beets and chicory alongside. Top warm vegetables with goat cheese crumbles.

English Muffins Toasted with Cinnamon Cheese and Maple Apples

English Muffins Toasted with Cinnamon Cheese and Maple Apples

1 whole grain English muffin

1/4 C. 1% dry-curd cottage cheese

Ground cinnamon

6 apple slices (about 1 1/2 ounces)

1 tsp. maple syrup

Split the muffin and place on a broiler pan or sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Spread the cottage cheese evenly over the muffin halves. Sprinkle to taste with cinnamon. Cover with the apple slices in a single layer. Drizzle 1/2 tsp. syrup over the apples on each half. Broil 6″ from the heat source for about 2 minutes, or until the apples start to sizzle. Serve right away.

Yield: 2 servings

Calories: 110

Fat; 1g

Fiber: 3g

Crispy Parmesan Chips

Crispy Parmesan Chips

30 wonton wrappers

Nonstick spray coating

2 T. olive oil

1 clove garlic, minced

1/2 tsp. dried basil, crushed

1/4 C. grated Parmesan or Romano cheese

Use a sharp knife to cut wonton wrappers diagonally in half to form 60 triangles. Spray a baking sheet with nonstick coating. Arrange one-third of the triangles in a single layer on prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl stir together the olive oil, garlic, and basil. Brush the wonton triangles lightly with some of the oil mixture; sprinkle with some of the Parmesan or Romano cheese. Bake in a 350 degree F oven about 8 minutes or until golden brown. Cool completely on a wire rack. Repeat with the remaining wonton triangles, oil mixture, and Parmesan or Romano cheese

G & G’s Club Pimento Cheese Spread

G & G’s Club Pimento Cheese Spread

1 cup Duke’s mayonnaise

½ cup sour cream

½ cup cream cheese

1 tsp. Dijon mustard

1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp. hot sauce

½ tsp. garlic, minced

2 lbs. white cheddar cheese, shredded

2 cups piquillo peppers, diced and drained

¼ cup pickled red onions (recipe follows)

1 bunch chives, thinly sliced

Pinch black pepper

 

pickled red onions (Yield: ¼ cup)

 

¼ cup water

¼ cup apple cider vinegar

¼ tsp. salt

¼ tsp. sugar

¼ cup red onions, diced

 

Make the pickled red onions: In a small pot, bring water, vinegar, salt, and sugar to a boil, then pour in the red onions. Cover with a paper towel to keep the onions submerged, and pickle for at least ten minutes. Drain the onions and let cool. Pickled onions can be made up to one month in advance. Refrigerate in an airtight container. In a food processor, puree mayonnaise, sour cream, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and garlic.  Transfer mixture to a large mixing bowl and add remaining ingredients. Mix until thoroughly incorporated.

Ways to use:

1. Serve on small baguette rounds
2. Spread on half and English muffin and broil until cheese bubbles
3. Add to a grilled burger
4. Tuck it inside a baked potato
5. Add to a BLT
6. Pimento Grilled Cheese Sandwich
7. Add a dollop to the top of a small biscuit, garnish with a bit of prosciutto and a piece of baby arugula or microgreens
8. Replace some of the mayo in deviled eggs with pimento cheese
9. Spread on celery sticks

Herbed Ricotta Cherry Tomatoes

Herbed Ricotta Cherry Tomatoes

8 cherry tomatoes, stems removed

Salt

2 1/2 dry-pack sun-dried tomato halves

3 T. part-skim ricotta cheese

1/4 T. grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 T. snipped fresh chives

1/2 clove garlic, minced

Pinch of ground black pepper

1/2 T. minced fresh basil

Cut a thin slice from the top of each cherry tomato. Carefully scoop out the seeds and flesh, leaving the shell intact. Lightly salt the insides of the tomatoes to draw out excess liquid. Invert on a rack to drain for 10 minutes. Rinse the tomatoes and set aside. Meanwhile, place the sun-dried tomatoes in a small bowl. Cover with boiling water and set aside for 15 minutes, or until softened. Remove the tomatoes from the water. Finely chop the tomatoes and transfer to a medium bowl. Stir in the ricotta, Parmesan, chives, garlic, and pepper. Mix well. Spoon the cheese mixture into a pastry bag fitted with a small star tip. Pipe the mixture into each cherry tomato. Sprinkle each with a small amount of the basil. Serve chilled or at room temperature. The sun-dried tomato soaking liquid may be reserved to use in sauces, soups or other dishes where a rich tomato flavor is desired. Freeze the liquid in an airtight container until ready to use.

Herbed Ricotta Snow Peas : Replace the cherry tomatoes with 8 snow peas. Remove the strings and ends from the snow peas. In a medium saucepan, bring a small amount of water to a boil. Add the snow peas and cook for 2 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.

Yield: 2 servings

Calories: 86

Fat: 2.5g

Fiber: 2.1g

Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest and Shaved Parmesan

Roasted Asparagus with Lemon Zest and Shaved Parmesan

6-8 asparagus spears, ends trimmed

1 T. olive oil

1/4 C. Parmesan, shaved with vegetable peeler or grater

zest of half a lemon

pinch of kosher salt

pinch ground black pepper

Toss asparagus with oil, salt, and pepper. Lay out flat in toaster oven and toast on highest setting, making sure they don’t burn. Once stalks brown slightly and become tender, remove from heat. Toss with zest and cheese. Enjoy.

Broccoli with Cheddar Crumbles

Broccoli with Cheddar Crumbles

1 pound broccoli, cut into walnut-size pieces

1 T. trans-fat free spread

2 T. dry whole grain bread crumbs

1/8 tsp. salt

2 T. shredded extra-sharp cheddar cheese

Bring 1/2″ water to a boil in a nonstick skillet. Add the broccoli. Cover and cook, tossing occasionally, for 2 minutes, or until bright green and crisp-tender. Drain the broccoli. Set aside. Wipe the skillet dry and place over high heat for 1 minute. Add the spread, bread crumbs, and salt. Stir to mix. Return the broccoli to the pan. Cook over medium heat, tossing for 3 minutes, or until the crumbs are toasted. Remove from the heat. Scatter on the cheese. Toss for about 1 minute, or until the cheese coats the broccoli and starts to melt.

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 88

Fat: 4g

Fiber: 3g

Parmesan Roasted Asparagus

Parmesan Roasted Asparagus

1 pound asparagus, trimmed, cut into thirds

1 T. (1/2 ounce) grated parmesan cheese

2 tsp. olive oil, preferably extra virgin

Pinch of salt

Ground black pepper

4 lemon wedges or white wine vinegar

Preheat the oven to 425°F. In a baking pan large enough to hold the asparagus in a single layer, combine the asparagus, cheese, oil, and salt. Toss to coat the asparagus evenly. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the asparagus is tender (time will vary depending upon the thickness of the asparagus). Season to taste with pepper. Serve with lemon wedges or a splash of vinegar.

Yield: 4 servings

Calories: 51

Fat: 3g

Fiber: 3g

Olive-and-Cheese Pinwheels

Olive-and-Cheese Pinwheels

1 T. olive oil
1 tsp. dried oregano
4 oz. block nonfat cream cheese, softened
1/3 C. chopped pimento-stuffed green olives
1 (11-oz.) can refrigerated soft breadstick dough
Vegetable cooking spray

Preheat oven to 400°. Combine first 3 ingredients in a medium bowl; beat at medium speed of a mixer until smooth. Stir in olives. Unroll breadstick dough (do not separate the dough into breadsticks). Spread cheese mixture evenly over dough. Beginning at one short side, roll up dough tightly, jelly-roll fashion, and pinch the seam to seal (do not seal ends of roll). Cut the dough along perforations into 8 slices. Place the slices, cut side up, into muffin C. coated with cooking spray. Bake at 400° for 20 minutes.

Yield: 8 rolls
Serving size: 1 roll

Calories: 143
Fat: 4.7g
Fiber: 1.2g

Sun-Dried Tomato Cheesecake

Sun-Dried Tomato Cheesecake

Crust:
5 (1-oz.) slices whole wheat bread
1/2 C. chopped fresh parsley
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. grated lemon rind
1/2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
1 T. butter
1 tsp. extravirgin olive oil
1 garlic clove, minced

Filling:
1 1/4 C. sun-dried tomato halves, packed without oil (about 3 oz.)
1 1/4 C. 1% low-fat cottage cheese
1 T. fresh lemon juice
1 T. all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp. salt
2 (8-oz.) blocks 1/3-less-fat cream cheese
2 (8-oz.) blocks fat-free cream cheese
2 large egg whites
1/4 C. coarsely chopped fresh basil
1/2 C. drained canned artichoke hearts, chopped
72 Melba toast rounds (about 12.5 oz.)

Preheat oven to 350°.Line bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment. To prepare crust, place bread in a food processor; pulse 10 times or until coarse breadcrumbs measure 2 C.. Combine breadcrumbs, parsley, 1/2 tsp. salt, rind, and pepper in a medium bowl. Melt butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add oil and garlic; cook 1 minute, stirring constantly. Add butter mixture to breadcrumbs; stir with a fork. Press breadcrumb mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Set aside. To prepare filling, cover sun-dried tomatoes with boiling water in a bowl; let stand 30 minutes or until soft. Drain and finely chop Place cottage cheese in a food processor; process until smooth. Add lemon juice and next 5 ingredients (through egg whites); process until smooth. Add tomatoes, basil, and artichoke; process until well blended. Pour cream cheese mixture into prepared pan. Bake at 350° for 30 minutes or until almost set; let cool to room temperature. Cover and chill; cut into 24 wedges. Serve at room temperature with Melba toast rounds.

Yield: 24 servings (serving size: 1 wedge and 3 melba toast rounds)
Calories: 164
Fat: 6.3g
Fiber: 1.9g

Chicken Capri

Chicken Capri

1 C. reduced-fat ricotta cheese
1/2 tsp. dried oregano
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
2 T. extra virgin olive oil
1 C. crushed tomatoes
4 slices reduced-fat mozzarella cheese

In a blender or food processor, combine the ricotta with the oregano, salt, and pepper. Process to blend. Rub the chicken with the garlic powder. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 12 minutes per side. Place the chicken breasts, side by side, in a large baking dish and allow to cool. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spoon 1/4 C. of the cheese mixture and 1/4 C. tomatoes onto each chicken breast. Top each chicken breast with 1 slice mozzarella. Bake for 20 minutes, or until a thermometer inserted in the thickest portion of a breast registers 170°F and the juices run clear.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 340
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 1g

Kelly Minner’s Cream Cheese Roll-ups

Kelly Minner’s Cream Cheese Roll-ups

2 slices of roast turkey or turkey bologna (2 ounces)
2 tablespoons fat free cream cheese with chives (or garden vegetable flavor)

Place meat slices on flat surface. Spread thinly with cream cheese mixture. Roll tightly. Cover and refrigerate until use.

Yield 2 servings
Calories: 83
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 0g

Chilled Red Pepper Soup with Garlic-Parmesan Crisps

Chilled Red Pepper Soup with Garlic-Parmesan Crisps

4 red bell peppers (about 2 1/2 C.), stems removed, quartered, and seeded
1 T. extra-virgin olive oil
3 medium shallots, chopped (1/2 C.)
1 clove garlic, minced
3 1/2 C., reduced-sodium chicken broth
Salt and pepper
Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced

Pita Crisps:
1 whole-wheat pita bread
1 clove garlic, halved
1 tsp. olive oil
2 T. grated Parmesan cheese

Preheat broiler. Line a large baking sheet with foil. Roast pepper quarters, skin up, for 15 minutes, until charred. Remove to paper bag. The steam released as they cool will loosen the skin. Using a small knife, peel off and discard charred skin. Chop peppers. Warm 1 T. oil in large heavy saucepan over medium-low heat. Add shallots; cook 3 minutes, until soft, stirring. Add garlic; cook 1 minute, stirring. Add chopped peppers, broth, salt, and pepper. Increase heat; bring to a simmer. Reduce heat; let simmer 20 minutes, uncovered, until vegetables are very soft. Using a slotted spoon, transfer mixture to food processor or blender; puree. Add broth from pan; blend on high speed until smooth. Chill soup at least 6 hours or over night. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Using scissors, separate pita to make two rounds. Rub with a garlic half; brush lightly with oil, then sprinkle with cheese. Bake for 15 minutes. Cut each round into 4 wedges. To serve: Whisk soup to blend. Thin with additional broth or add salt, if necessary. Top serving with crisps and basil slices.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 175
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 7g

Pasta with Ricotta, Herbs, and Lemon

Pasta with Ricotta, Herbs, and Lemon

1 1-lb. box penne
2 T. unsalted butter, cut into pieces
1 C. fresh ricotta
1/3 C. roughly chopped mixed fresh herbs (such as chervil, tarragon, and flat-leaf parsley)
Zest of 1 lemon, grated
3/4 tsp. kosher salt
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Reserving 1/3 C. of the water, drain the pasta, then return it to the pot. In a medium bowl, whisk together the butter, ricotta, and pasta water until a rich, creamy sauce forms. Pour the sauce over the hot pasta. Add the herbs, zest, salt, and pepper and toss. Tip: Ricotta can vary dramatically in taste and texture. Depending on the brand you use, you may need to add extra pasta water and butter to create a sauce that’s sufficiently creamy.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 573
Fat: 15.4g
Fiber: 4g

Southern Italian-Style Steak with Pine Nuts, Spinach and Parmesan

Southern Italian-Style Steak with Pine Nuts, Spinach and Parmesan

1 1/2 lb. flank steak
4 tsp. Basil Leaves
2 tsp. Garlic Powder
1 tsp. Ground Black Pepper
1 tsp. salt
1 package (6 oz.) fresh baby spinach
1/2 C. pine nuts, toasted
1/4 C. Parmesan cheese
1/4 C. dried breadcrumbs
4 T. olive oil, divided
3/4 C. chopped onion
2 T. dry red wine
1 can (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes, undrained

Cut flank steak almost in half horizontally without cutting all the way through. Open steak to form a rectangle. Combine basil, garlic, pepper and salt. Reserve 1 tsp. for sauce. In a food processor, combine 1 T. spice blend, spinach, pine nuts, Parmesan, breadcrumbs and 2 T. olive oil. Pulse to make a coarse mixture. Spread over steak. Roll steak into a log shape; tie with string in several places to close securely. Sprinkle with remaining spice blend. Preheat oven to 350°F. Pour 1 T. olive oil into large skillet on medium-high heat. Add steak; sear on all sides until brown. Transfer steak into a 7 X 11-inch baking pan. Cover and bake 1 hour. Warm skillet over medium heat. Pour wine into skillet, scraping bottom of pan to loosen any bits of flavor. Add 1 T. olive oil, reserved 1 tsp. spice blend seasoning, and onions; sauté 5 minutes. Set aside. Remove steak from oven; cover with foil. Let stand 10 minutes. Add tomatoes to skillet; cook 10 minutes over medium heat. Slice meat. Top with warm sauce.

Yield: 6 servings
Calories: 375
Fat: 23g
Fiber: 5g

Ricotta Romanoff Sundae

Ricotta Romanoff Sundae

1/2 C. strawberries, cut into quarters
3/4 tsp. grated orange peel
2 tsp. sugar substitute
1/4 C. sliced strawberries
1 C. part-skim ricotta cheese
1/2 T. pistachios
Mint leaves, for garnish

In a blender or food processor, combine the quartered strawberries, orange peel, and sugar substitute and blend until smooth. Pour into a large bowl. Gently stir in the sliced strawberries. Cover and chill. When ready to serve, evenly divide the ricotta among 2 serving bowls. Pour equal amounts of the strawberry mixture over the ricotta, then sprinkle with the pistachios. Garnish with the mint leaves.

Yield: 2 servings
Calories: 220
Fat: 11g
Fiber: 2g

Spinach and Cheese Squares

Spinach and Cheese Squares

2 large eggs, or 1/2 C. egg substitute
6 T. whole-wheat flour
1 10oz package frozen, chopped spinach, thawed
2 C. low-fat cottage cheese
2 C. reduced-fat Cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp. fresh ground black pepper
1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper
1 pinch nutmeg
3 T. wheat germ

In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the flour until the mixture is smooth. Add the spinach, cheeses, cayenne and nutmeg, and mix the ingredients well. Pour mixture into a nonstick coated 13x9x2-inch baking pan. Sprinkle the top with wheat germ and bake at 350 degrees F. for about 45 minutes. Let stand for about 10 minutes and then cut into 1-1/2-inch squares for serving.

Yield: 18
Serving Size: 2 squares

Calories: 66
Fat: 2g
Fiber: 1g

Asparagus Parmesan

Asparagus Parmesan

1/2 lb. fresh asparagus (6 to 10 spears)
1 T. extra-virgin olive oil
2 T. grated Parmesan cheese
1/8 tsp. ground black pepper

Trim the ends of the asparagus, about 1 inch or so from the bottom. Place asparagus in a 2-quart microwaveable casserole dish with about 1/4 C. water. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and cook in microwave, 10 to 12 minutes, or until tender to taste. Carefully remove plastic (steam will be very hot) and drain. Gently toss the asparagus with olive oil to coat; sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and pepper. Cook, uncovered, 1 minute to melt cheese. Let stand 2 minutes before serving.

Yield: 2 servings
Calories: 124
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 2g

Egg Salad With Asparagus and Parmesan

Egg Salad With Asparagus and Parmesan

1/4 lb. asparagus, cut into bite-sized pieces (3 to 5 spears)
1 T. extra-virgin olive oil
2 tsp. lemon zest
1/4 C. scallions, chopped fine
1/2 C. shaved Parmesan cheese
4 large hard-cooked eggs
1 tsp. cayenne pepper

Boil 3 C. salted water. Immerse the asparagus for 2 to 4 minutes or until bright green and crisp-tender. Rinse immediately under cold water. Pat dry and toss with olive oil, lemon zest, scallions, and 1/4 C. Parmesan. Cut eggs in half, and sprinkle each with a bit of cayenne pepper. Serve each egg alongside the asparagus mixture.

Yield: 2 servings
Calories: 349
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 2g

Chicken Breasts Stuffed With Goat Cheese and Arugula

Chicken Breasts Stuffed With Goat Cheese and Arugula

2 oz. soft goat cheese, cut into pieces
1 garlic clove, minced
4 (6-oz.) boneless, skinless chicken-breast halves
Salt and black pepper
1 bunch arugula (3 oz.), washed, trimmed, and coarsely chopped
1 T. extra-virgin olive oil
3/4 C. reduced-sodium chicken broth

Combine cheese and garlic in small cup. Trim excess fat from chicken; season with salt and pepper. Using a sharp knife, cut a horizontal slit through thickest portion of each breast to form a deep pocket. Stuff each pocket with an equal amount of cheese mixture and arugula. Press edges of chicken together to seal. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Brown chicken, 4 minutes per side. Reduce heat to medium; add broth to pan. Cover and simmer, about 6 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through. Serve immediately, discarding any remaining broth.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 209
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 0g

Cheese and Pepper (Cacio e Pepe) Spaghetti Squash

Cheese and Pepper (Cacio e Pepe) Spaghetti Squash

1 (4 pound) spaghetti squash

2 T. extra virgin olive oil

1 C. grated Romano

Salt and lots of coarsely ground black pepper

To microwave squash, cut in half and seed. Place 1/4-inch water in a microwave safe dish. Place squash in dish, cut sides down — sides will overlap. Cover with plastic wrap and microwave on high power 13 minutes. Reserve 1/2 C. liquid in a bowl. Shred squash and add the “spaghetti” to bowl with liquid. To boil squash: cut in half and scrape out seeds. Boil squash until tender, 15 to 20 minutes. Place 1/2 C. cooking water into a bowl, then drain and shred the squash. Transfer to a bowl with reserved liquid. Toss squash with reserved liquid and dress with extra-virgin olive oil, lots of cheese, salt to taste, and lots of black pepper. Serve.

Cream of Cheddar Soup and Lime Chicken Avocado Salad

Cream of Cheddar Soup and Lime Chicken Avocado Salad

2 T. butter

1 large yellow onion, chopped

3 garlic cloves, chopped

1 tsp crushed hot red pepper flakes

salt and pepper

2 T. ground cumin

2 T. flour

1 quart chicken stock or broth 

1 C. heavy cream (half and half works just fine)

Extra Virgin Olive Oil (aka EVOO)

5 thin chicken breast cutlets (I used two breasts)

1 T. ground coriander

2 limes

1 ripe avocado

1/2 head iceberg lettuce 

cherry tomatoes, cut in half

1/4 C. fresh cilantro leaves, chopped

4 C. good-quality aged Cheddar Cheese, grated

Heat a soup pot over medium heat with the butter. When the butter melts, add the onion, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and 1 T. of the cumin (a palmful). Cook for 3 minutes. Add the flour and cook for 1 minute more. Whisk in the chicken stock and heavy cream, bring up to a simmer, and cook for 10 minutes. In the mean time. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat with 2 T. of the EVOO. Season the chicken breasts with the remaining T. of cumin, the coriander, and salt and pepper; add to the hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove the chicken to the cutting board, squeeze the juice of 1 lime over the chicken, and allow it to cool slightly. Dice avocado and scoop it out. Place lettuce (or spinach) on plates, followed by chopped cilantro, avocado and tomatoes. Cut the chicken into strips and add to each plate. Squeeze the juice from the other lime in a small dish and mix in 3 T. of EVOO. Divide the dressing among each plate. Season with salt and pepper. To finish the soup, turn the heat off. While whisking, add the grated cheddar cheese in 3 additions. Service the cheddar soup immediately alongside the lime chicken avocado salad.

Caramelized Onion and White Cheddar Dip with Apples and Dark Bread

Caramelized Onion and White Cheddar Dip with Apples and Dark Bread

4 T. butter

2 large onions, finely chopped

1 bay leaf, fresh or dried

1 tsp. dried thyme or poultry seasoning

Salt and pepper

3 green apples

1/2 lemon, juiced

1 small, round loaf crusty pumpernickel bread, cut into bite-size cubes, 1 pound

3 T. all-purpose flour

2/3 C. dry white wine

2 C. half-and-half

1/2 tsp. freshly grated nutmeg

A pinch or 2 of ground cloves

2 1/2 C. shredded sharp white Cheddar

Heat a heavy bottomed medium pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Melt butter in pot and add onions, raising heat slightly. Add bay, thyme, salt and pepper to onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are soft and caramel in color, 20 minutes. While onions cook, slice apples and douse with a little lemon juice to slow browning. Arrange the apples and bread on a board or platter. When onions are soft and sweet, add flour and cook a minute. Whisk in wine, cook a minute then whisk in half-and-half. When the liquid comes up to a bubble, season with nutmeg and cloves and adjust salt and pepper, to taste. Stir in Cheddar and melt then remove from heat and serve in fondue pot or transfer to a small, warmed sauce pot which you can return to the stove top to reheat sauce as necessary. Dip apples and bread in warm cheesy sauce and enjoy.

German Cheddar and Beer Fondue

German Cheddar and Beer Fondue

1 sack, 10 ounces, 2 1/2 C., shredded sharp Cheddar, available on dairy aisle

1/4 to 1/3 pound, 4 to 6 ounces, Gruyere, shredded

1 rounded T. all-purpose flour

1 C. German lager beer

2 T. spicy brown mustard

A few drops hot sauce

A few drops Worcestershire sauce

For Serving:

1 1/2 pounds cubed or thick sliced and browned wursts: knock, brat or brot,

1 package mini party franks (recommended: Boars Head)

1 head cauliflower, separated into florets

1 small jar mini Gherkin pickles, drained

1 small jar pickled onions, available on vegetable aisle

1 small, round loaf rye, pumpernickel or sour dough bread, cubed

Combine cheeses in a bowl with flour. Add beer to a small pot and bring up to a bubble over medium heat. Reduce the heat to simmer and add cheese in handfuls. Stir constantly, melting the cheese in batches. Stir in a figure-eight pattern with wooden spoon. When the cheese has been incorporated fully, stir in the mustard, hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Transfer fondue to warm fondue pot. In a large skillet, bring 2-inches of water to a boil and blanch the cauliflower for 2 to 3 minutes, drain and arrange around the fondue pot. In the same pan, bring the cooking water back to a boil and add the mini franks and sliced wursts. Cook, uncovered until all the liquid has evaporated. Add 1 T. butter to the pan to crisp the casings. Pile wursts and dogs near fondue. Complete the dipping selections with dishes of pickles, onions and cubed bread.

Ham and Cheese Frittaco

Ham and Cheese Frittaco

2 large Eggs beaten

1 T. Half-and-half cream or milk

1 pinch Salt

1 pinch Pepper

5 drops Tabasco sauce

1 slice Swiss, provolone or sliced cheddar

2 slices Deli Ham

Heat a small nonstick skillet with the olive oil over medium heat. Beat the eggs with a splash of half and half, salt and pepper, and hot sauce. Cook the eggs in the skillet for 2 minutes without disturbing them. Once the eggs have browned and set, flip the frittata. Add a layer of cheese, then the ham, folding it to fit in the pan and cover the surface of the eggs and cheese evenly. Fold the frittata so it looks like a taco and slide it onto a plate. Enjoy!

Ham and Cheese Mini Frittatas

Ham and Cheese Mini Frittatas

1/4 pound deli sliced Swiss cheese, finely chopped

6 slices Canadian bacon, finely chopped

3 T. snipped or chopped chives

A few grinds black pepper

8 eggs, or 1 pint egg beaters

2 T. melted butter

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Mix together the chopped cheese, Canadian bacon, and chives and season with a few grinds of pepper. In a bowl, beat the eggs. Brush the muffin tins with melted butter. Using a tsp., fill the 24 mini-muffin C. halfway with the cheese mixture. Using a ladle, fill the C. to just below the edge with the beaten eggs. Bake until golden, about 12 minutes. Remove and let cool to handle, then arrange the egg bites on a plate and serve.

Ham and Cheese Cucumber Snackers

Ham and Cheese Cucumber Snackers

1/2 European seedless cucumber

1 round soft cheese with garlic and herbs, 6 ounces (recommended: Boursin)

2 slices, deli cut, Mandrange French ham or boiled ham

Cut cumbers into thin rounds. Spread some cheese on sliced cucumbers. Cut ham into 1 1/2-inch wide strips. Wrap ham around cucumbers and cheese.

Celeriac, Onion, and Queso Fresco Frittuffins

Celeriac, Onion, and Queso Fresco Frittuffins

Small celeriac, diced

1/4 red onion, diced

1 garlic green, chopped

1/2 C. queso fresco, grilled and diced

6 eggs, beaten

Salt

Pepper

Paprika

Olive oil

To begin, preheat the oven to 350°. Next, heat a T. or so of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the pan and oil are hot, sauté the red onions and celeriac until cooked through and slightly crispy. Add in the garlic greens for a minute to quickly combine, and then remove from the heat. While that is cooling, mix the eggs with a bit of salt, pepper and paprika (just enough to season the eggs). Then, add the diced cheese and the celeriac and onion mixture to the eggs and pour into the individual muffin C.. Silicon would be best, but metal-type would work too. Place the muffin tin in the oven, and bake for 10-15 minutes, until frittuffins are cooked through; they’ll be very puffy and will have risen just like a soufflé. Take them out to cool and, once cooled, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and place them in a Ziploc. To reheat them each day, just place them in the toaster oven for about 5-10 minutes at 300°, and they turn out perfectly!

Blushing Turkey and Cheese Sandwiches

Blushing Turkey and Cheese Sandwiches

4 crusty French sandwich rolls

4 oz. chevre (goat) cheese

1 C. pitted, chopped Northwest fresh sweet cherries

1/4 C. lowfat mayonnaise

1 T. each Dijon-style mustard and chopped fresh basil

8 oz. thinly sliced roasted turkey breast

2 C. baby spinach leaves

Slice sandwich rolls in half horizontally, leaving one long side attached. Spread one oz. cheese on cut side of bottom half of each roll. Combine cherries, mayonnaise, mustard and basil; mix well. Spread 3 to 4 T. cherry mixture on cut side of top half of each roll. For each sandwich arrange 2 oz. turkey on cheese and top with 1/2 C. spinach leaves. Serve immediately or keep refrigerated until ready to serve. Picnic Tip: Wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap, aluminum foil, sandwich bag or plastic container. Store in cooler.

Herb & Cheese Savory Cookies with Balsamic Syrup

Herb & Cheese Savory Cookies with Balsamic Syrup

1 C. of flour

2 tbsp of fresh rosemary

1/4 C. of butter, cut into cubes

1/2 C. of grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 C. of sour cream

Salt and pepper

Balsamic Syrup (recipe below)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a food processor, place flour, rosemary, butter, salt and pepper. Pulse until combined. Add the Parmesan cheese and sour cream. Pulse until the dough comes together. Roll dough out into a log and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Slice dough into cookies and place them on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes, until they just start to brown. Serve with balsamic syrup.

Balsamic Syrup

1 C. balsamic vinegar (fig infused balsamic is also good)

3 T. of sugar

3 T. of light flavored honey

Combine balsamic vinegar, sugar and honey in a saucepan over medium/low heat. Simmer until reduced by ½ and has the consistency of syrup. Be careful not to let it reduce too much or it will become bitter and hard. Also watch out for the fumes from the vinegar as it cooks. Allow the syrup to come to room temperature. You can cover and refrigerate the syrup for up to 2 weeks. Bring the syrup to room temperature before using it.

Ham, Pineapple and Cheese Sandwich

Ham, Pineapple and Cheese Sandwich

1 kaiser roll
1 tsp. Dijon mustard
1 leaf lettuce
1 slice reduced-fat Swiss cheese
2 slices ham lunch meat
2 rings canned pineapple, drained

Slice the roll in half. Spread mustard on the bottom half, and top with the lettuce, cheese, ham and pineapple.

Yield: 1 serving
Calories: 382
Fat: 13g
Fiber: 2g

Festive Warm Brie

Festive Warm Brie

4 inch round of Brie or Camembert

Tomato Bruschetta Topping:
1 C. seeded and finely chopped ripe tomato
1 small minced garlic clove
1/2 tsp. olive oil
1/4 tsp. dried basil
pinch of ground black pepper

Jalapeno Pepper Topping:
1/4 C. finely chopped Red Bell Pepper
1 finely chopped seeded Jalapeno Chili
1 cliver Garlic, minced

Thinly slice top rind off cheese, leaving sides and bottom intact. To heat in oven, place on a foil-lined baking sheet for easy handling. Or place round on a microwave-safe plate. Stir all ingredients for each topping together, and spoon each over in pleasing pattern. Topped cheese can be covered and refrigerated for up to half a day. When ready to serve, preheat oven to 350. Bake cheese, uncovered, in center of oven until warm, from 8 to 10 minutes. Or microwave, loosely covered, on medium power just until warm, from 1-1/2 to 2 minutes. Serve right away with crackers such as water biscuits.

Yield: 6 servings
Calories: 113
Fat: 9.3
Fiber: trace

Linguine with Spinach, Red Pepper and Gouda

Linguine with Spinach, Red Pepper and Gouda

3/4 pound linguine
1 T. olive oil
4 minced garlic cloves
1 red bell pepper, cut into thin 2-inch-long strips
1 10-ounce package fresh spinach, stems discarded and leaves washed
1/4 tsp. salt
Generous seasoning freshly ground pepper
3/4 C. grated smoked Gouda cheese

Cook pasta according to directions; reserve 1/4 C. liquid and drain pasta; set aside. Heat oil on medium in a large, nonstick skillet. Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Stir in red bell pepper and saute until softened, about 7 minutes. Pile on spinach and cover. Cook until wilted, about 3 minutes. Stir in salt and ground pepper. Add reserved pasta water. Toss sauce with pasta; stir in cheese and serve.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 462
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 5g

Pasta with Goat Cheese & Onion Confit

Pasta with Goat Cheese & Onion Confit

8 ounces spaghetti
4 C. thinly sliced onions
1 tsp. minced garlic
1/2 tsp. dried sage
1/2 tsp. dried rosemary
1 tsp. sugar
1/2 C. dry white wine or chicken broth
2 ounces fat-free cream cheese
2 ounces goat cheese
Salt and white pepper to taste
1/4 C. coarsely chopped walnuts

Cook spaghetti according to directions; drain. Heat a large nonstick skillet coated with cooking spray until hot. Add onions and cook, covered, over medium-low heat until onions are very soft, about 20 minutes. Stir in garlic, sage, rosemary and sugar; cook, uncovered, over medium-low heat until onions are caramelized and brown, or 10 to 15 minutes. Stir in wine or chicken broth. Simmer 2 or 3 minutes longer. Stir in cream cheese and goat cheese and cook over low heat, stirring until melted, 2 or 3 minutes. Season to taste with salt and white pepper. Spoon pasta and onion mixture on serving platter and toss; sprinkle with walnuts.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 423
Fat: 11g
Fiber: 5g

Cheese Soup

Cheese Soup

2 T. Butter
2 T. chopped Yellow Onion
3 T. Flour
2 C. Chicken Broth
2 C. Milk
1 C. grated Sharp Cheddar Cheese (4oz.)
Salt, to taste
Chopped fresh Parsley for garnish

Heat a 3 quart pot on medium high. Add butter. When melted, add onion and stir slowly and constantly until the onions are soft but not brown. Mix in the flour and blend fully, stirring constantly. Cook 3 -5 minutes. Slowly add broth and milk, stirring constantly until soup almost reaches the boiling point (small bubbles begin to form a ring arouns the edge of the pot). Stir in the cheese and whisk until melted. Season to taste with salt and garnish with parsley

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 269
Fat: 19g
Fiber: 0g

Cook’s Illustrated Arugula Salad with Figs, Prosciutto, Walnuts & Parmesan

Cook’s Illustrated Arugula Salad with Figs, Prosciutto, Walnuts & Parmesan

Although frying the prosciutto adds crisp texture to the salad, if you prefer, you can simply cut it into ribbons and use it as a garnish. Honey can be substituted for the raspberry jam.

1/4 C. extra-virgin olive oil
2 oz. thinly sliced prosciutto, cut into %-inch-wide ribbons
3 tsp. balsamic vinegar
1 tsp. raspberry jam
1/2 C. dried figs, stemmed and chopped into %-inch pieces
1 small shallot, minced
Salt and pepper
5 oz. (5 C.) baby arugula
1/2 C. walnuts, toasted and chopped
2 oz. Parmesan cheese, shaved into thin strips with vegetable peeler (1 C.)

Heat 1 tsp. oil in 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium heat; add prosciutto and fry until crisp, stirring frequently, about 7 minutes. Using slotted spoon, transfer to paper towel-lined plate and set aside to let cool. Whisk vinegar and jam in medium microwave-safe bowl; stir in figs. Cover with plastic wrap, cut several steam vents in plastic, and microwave on high until figs are plump, 30 seconds to 1 minute. Whisk in remaining 3 tsp. oil, shallot, 1/4 tsp. salt, and 1/8 tsp. pepper; toss to combine. Let cool to room temperature. Toss arugula and vinaigrette in large bowl; season with salt and pepper to taste. Divide salad among individual plates; top each with portion of prosciutto, walnuts, and Parmesan. Serve immediately.

Cheese and Shrimp Stuffed Roasted Poblanos with Red Bell Pepper Sauce

Cheese and Shrimp Stuffed Roasted Poblanos with Red Bell Pepper Sauce

8 large poblano chilies (each about 3 ounces)
8 oz. peeled deveined cooked shrimp, coarsely chopped
2/3 cup soft fresh goat cheese (about 4 ounces), room temperature
1/2 cup (packed) grated Panela cheese* or Monterey Jack cheese
1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
2 T. chopped shallot
2 T. chopped fresh cilantro
2 T. chopped fresh basil
Red Bell Pepper Sauce

Char poblano chilies over gas flame or in broiler until blackened on all sides. Enclose in paper bag 10 minutes. Peel chilies. Using small sharp knife, carefully slit chilies open along 1 side. Remove seeds, leaving stems attached. Mix shrimp and next 6 ingredients in medium bowl. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Fill chilies with shrimp mixture, dividing equally. Pull up sides of chilies to enclose filling. Place stuffed chilies on baking sheet. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.) Preheat oven to 350�F. Bake chilies uncovered until heated through and cheeses melt, about 15 minutes. Spoon 3 T. Red Bell Pepper Sauce onto each of 8 plates. Place 1 stuffed chili atop sauce on each. Garnish with basil leaves, if desired, and serve.

*Panela cheese is a popular cheese in Mexico. Panela cheese is mild, white and crumbly and will not run when heated. The cheese is used in Mexico for many cooked dishes, and is commonly crumbled over salads, tacos, chili and burritos. Look for it in Mexican or gourmet food stores.

Yield: 4 servings
Calories: 272
Fat: 14g
Fiber: 0g

Gruyere Caraway Popovers

Gruyere Caraway Popovers

2 large eggs
3/4 C. milk
1/4 C. water
1 T. melted butter
1 C. minus 2 T. all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. caraway seeds, freshly ground or smashed, plus more whole, for the centers
1/2 C. coarsely grated Gruyere (about 2 oz.)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Generously grease 6 (2/3-C.) popover tins or 9 (1/2-C.) muffin tins.
In a bowl whisk together eggs, milk, and water and add butter in a stream, whisking. Add flour and salt and whisk mixture until combined well but still slightly lumpy. Whisk ground caraway seeds into batter. Divide half of batter among tins and sprinkle 1/4 C. Gruyere and whole caraway seeds over popovers. Then top with the remainder of batter. Bake popovers in lower 1/3 of oven for 45 minutes. Cut a slit about 1/2-inch long on top of each popover with a small sharp knife and bake 10 minutes more.

Yield: 9 servings
Calories: 103
Fat: 4.8g
Fiber: .3g

Swiss Cheese Ham and Asparagus Bake

Swiss Cheese Ham and Asparagus Bake

1 pkg. (6 oz.) Stove Top Stuffing Mix for Chicken
3 C. cubed cooked ham
18 fresh asparagus spears (about 1/2 lb.), cut into 2-inch pieces
1 can (10-3/4 oz.) condensed cream of celery soup
1/2 C. milk
1 C. hredded Swiss Cheese

Preheat oven to 350°F. Add 1-1/2 C. hot water to stuffing mix in medium bowl; stir just until moistened. Let stand 5 min. Mix ham, asparagus, soup and milk in 13×9-inch baking dish; sprinkle with cheese. Top with stuffing. Bake 30 min. or until heated through and golden brown on top.

Yield: 6 servings
Calories: 300
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 2g

Crispy Parmesan Potatoes

Crispy Parmesan Potatoes

5 medium potatoes, cut in chunks

About 3 – 4 T. olive oil

3/4 C. seasoned bread crumbs

1/2 C. Parmesan cheese

Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl. Spread on a greased baking sheet. Bake in a preheated 400 degree oven for about 30 to 40 minutes. Turn occasionally so they don’t burn. The potatoes should be tender and lightly browned.